Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.)

A ministry of lasting influence demands a preoccupation with a message of eternal significance: the transformational gospel of Jesus Christ. This conviction defines the emphasis of the Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) program: a course of study aimed at achieving the most advanced degree in pastoral training. It encompasses three areas of concentrated study—Christ-Centered Preaching, Gospel Spirituality, and Pastoral Leadership—delivered by a distinctive faculty that includes internationally-recognized ministry leaders. Interactive classes, chosen by the student, are combined with extensive reading and research to produce a dissertation that seeks to make a unique and significant contribution to the field of pastoral ministry. All this combines in the most advanced degree in pastoral training, developing pastors who share Christ's deep love for the Church.

Curriculum

Accessible Scheduling

The Doctor of Ministry program may be completed in three years’ time by enrolling in week-long intensive seminars offered at the Portland campus. This unique scheduling design means students can complete their studies without leaving family, career, or ministry behind. This level of academic research will require that D.Min. students have ready access to a theological or seminary library in their region.

Ministry Training That Keeps Debt Down

Ministry work can bring limited financial reward. That's why we encourage wise financial stewardship as you pay for school. In fact, the average Western Seminary student graduates with an average of only $8532 in loan debt to repay. It might surprise you to learn that only about 19% of our students utilize loans, choosing instead to paying out of pocket, with scholarships, or via a monthly payment plan. Look into your options for financial aid.

Admission Requirements

A Master of Divinity degree or a two year M.A. degree in ministry leadership consisting of at least 72 semester credits from an ATS-accredited seminary

A cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 higher, as well as a cumulative graduate GPA of 3.0 or higher

At least three years of full-time experience in a significant ministry leadership role after seminary graduation

Continuing significant leadership role during period of doctoral studies

A completed application for admission and all admission materials

If an applicant does not meet one of these requirements, we invite them to contact an enrollment counselor to explore alternative Doctor of Ministry admission options.

Next D.Min. Course

“Biblical Exegesis, Cultural Analysis, and Grace in New Testament Preaching"

Dr. Dan Doriani

PTS 732Q (March 16-19, 2015 at the Portland Campus)

This class will equip and encourage emerging and seasoned leaders to grow in interpreting, applying, and communicating God's truth in an increasingly resistant culture. Exegesis, application, and cultural analysis will serve Christ-centered messages. The class will have some lecture, but stress exploration of texts. We will propose and test ideas as we hammer out the outlines of messages. As broken-redeemed-substantially healed expositors, we speak to disciples and skeptics alike.

How refreshing it is to see a seminary community so resolute about putting the DNA of the gospel into their curriculum and culture. My first experience of teaching on the Portland campus has me excited about both the future of Western and my engagement with their vision and passion.